Friday, December 31, 2010

In the News ... "Odessa Church Fighting Crime with Goodwill"

Odessa Church Fighting Crime with Goodwill
Nick Lawton
Reporter

KWES-TV

ODESSA, TEXAS - During the holidays, West Texans bring their valuables in and then go off to celebrate with loved ones.

It's an unfortunate truth, that's when thieves strike.

CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KWES story.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

In the News ... "Stanton man carves wooden Methodist cross, flame"

Stanton man carves wooden Methodist cross, flame
By Audrie Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

STANTON, TEXAS - When Ronnie Christian holds a piece of wood in his hands, he says he enjoys watching the grain of it change as he cuts the angles and curves and begins to give it a whole different look ... What he usually ends up with is the traditional Methodist cross and flame design he sells or gives to friends and family.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

FBR Report: "A Closeness Born of Gratitude, Common Purpose and Love - Part 1"

The Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma (Myanmar). Ethnic pro-democracy groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.

"A Closeness Born of Gratitude, Common Purpose and Love - Part 1"

"Dear friends, Thanks so much for how you help us and for how you care about the people of Burma. We are relaying this out from Karen State and want you to know how grateful we are for each of you."

"A few days ago in a village we had visited before, the headmaster of the school came up to me and, smiling broadly, said, 'We thank God for you, you are such a blessing to us and are always bringing us the good things that we need. We pray that God will bless you and that you will keep coming here!'"

"I replied, 'Actually I do not have very much. It is my friends from around the world who give these things to us to give to you. Without them we could not do this. So they are really the ones to thank.'"

"'Oh yes, I understand,' was the headmaster's reply. 'We thank God for them and pray God's abundant blessing on them. Please tell them all how grateful we are and how they send the things we need. We see how they help you help us. Please tell them we will pray for them!'"

"So I am writing to let you know how you are a crucial part of this team. We are each in our different places and in our different roles, working together to help make a better Burma. Not only that, this service helps us to be the kind of people we want to be. Your encouragement and support makes us want to live up to the highest standards of love, courage and honor."

"Earlier, on December 6, our team held a medical treatment, fun run and Good Life Club (GLC) program in a rice field valley near Tha Dah Der village. The village had been burned by the Burma Army in July, 2010. It was the fifth time the village had been overrun by the Burma Army since 1958 and the third time it had been burned. In spite of these attacks there was an overwhelming feeling of joy as over 450 children, from four different schools, gathered here for the program."



"I would like to have two of the team members describe this day; one is 'Ant,' [below] part of the GLC team, and one is my father [next week's post] who, at age 81, traveled by foot, mule and elephant to be part of the training of the teams and the first mission after graduation."

Part 1: GLC member 'Ant'

Children from 4 villages gather for a GLC program

"Members from 17 newly-trained FBR teams led the program that included a Run for Relief, singing, games and health lessons for the students, and a medical clinic. In many ways things seemed the same as other years -- the heat of the sun over the field, the laughter and smiles of the children, the local parents and leaders and old people gathered together to cook sticky rice and hot tea for everyone, FBR team members running around with cameras and video cameras, recording everything. The feeling of joy that lit up the day contrasted with the charred posts of burned homes just up the hill and the sound of shooting in the distance by the Burma Army earlier in the morning.

Children laughing and singing at the GLC program

Hundreds of children ran a race for fun over fields they had been fleeing through months earlier. Their families are rebuilding their homes and church around these fields. In a year where elections news has focused on how fractured Burma is, the children's and medical programs were led by Kachin, Karen, Karenni, Lahu, Mon, Naga and Pa-Oh team members -- young people who joined FBR to help their people and their country. They sang songs and acted out the story of David and Goliath; they taught physical health and nutrition; played games and handed out a GLC shirt to each child; they talked about how forgiveness and God's love bring new life.

Children take off to begin the Tha Dah Der run for relief

The day ended and the students from different schools began the walk back, talking and laughing, the rangers packed up, a game of Frisbee broke out. A victory of sorts had happened: I felt that there is a great force for hate out there, but that the power of love was stronger. The picture I had was of a rock in the ocean that is constantly beaten by waves - but the waves break on it every time, and every time the rock reappears."

Daniel leads a multi-ethnic team in songs for the GLC program

Next week ... Part 2: My Father ...

Even though we are far away from you dear reader, we also feel a closeness to you. This is a closeness born of gratitude, common purpose and love.

May God bless you all,

A Relief Team leader
Free Burma Rangers
Burma


Faces of Children: Prayer Requests

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

Prayer Concerns for the week of 12/29/10

Africa/Haiti
Thanks be to God for a peanut paste supplemented with vitamins and additional calories that has significantly lowered the mortality rates of children during famines in Africa and is helping malnourished children in Haiti. Plumpy’nut is specially formulated to renourish starving children.
Give God thanks that this tasty paste helps children put on pounds quickly and allows them to receive treatment at home from their families instead of at a medical facility.
Pray that the legal squabbles between the company that owns the patent on Plumpy’nut and other groups will not keep this powerful tool for malnourished children from reaching them.
A report from the New York Times


Chechnya, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan
Please pray for an end to the practice of abducting girls and young women to be brides in the Caucasus and Central Asia. Pray for a change in this increasingly frequent practice in Chechnya, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. As many as one in four marriages in Chechnya begin with the bride being kidnapped. Pray that laws are enforced to protect girls and women from bride kidnappings.
Pray for those who have been kidnapped and forced into marriages against their will, sometimes in marriages to total strangers. Please keep in prayer young women who find themselves isolated in forced marriages and unable to continue their educations or careers.
A report from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Ethiopia
Give thanks to God for the work of Watch and Pray Ministries in Ethiopia as they prepare to build a worship site, a kindergarten, and a clean water site. Pray that God will provide the resources needed to complete this project. Pray for the children God will call to be educated at this school. Thank God that there has been no government interference with this project so far.
Website for Watch and Pray Ministries

Iraq
Pray for Iraqi children and families who fled the country after the U.S. led invasion but recently returned, only to find unsafe conditions again in their home country. An estimated 100,000 refugees out of the more than two million that left since the invasion, have returned to Iraq.
Pray for those who returned to Iraq only to find their houses either destroyed or occupied. Pray for those whose families cannot find work in Iraq or abroad. Pray for children and families who are afraid for their safety in Iraq and desperately want to leave again … for those who regret returning to their home country.
Pray for the Christians in Iraq who are leaving because of recent attacks and persecution.
Please pray for children who have witnessed death, destruction, and violence. Pray that God would bring healing and peace into their young lives.
A report from the New York Times

United States
Pray for the girls and young women who have been trafficked into prostitution by members of Somali gangs based in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area. Pray for their release, their safety, and their healing.
Pray for children and youth who are vulnerable to abuse and coercion by these gangs. Often Somali-born parents who fled civil war and famine in their home country are at odds with their American-born children. Pray for families in which this cultural disconnect has caused deep divisions and led youth to run away from home.
Pray for Somali youth who came to the United States without their parents after living for years in refugee camps. Many of these young people have dropped out of school and spend their time on the streets in a low-income area some call Little Mogadishu.
Please pray for the leaders and parents in this community as they struggle to find ways to stop the violence against and by their youth.
A report from the New York Times

Faces of Children
Please continue to pray that more churches and individuals will join with the ministry of Faces of Children in spreading awareness about children in crisis and inviting more people to pray for children at risk.

In the News ... "Midland Restoration Church Program"

Midland Restoration Church Program
Robert Guaderrama
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - A Midland church has a program that is helping change lives. After God's Own Heart Restoration Church in Midland helps people from all around the country. They focus on aiding people who need a change of life.

The room was filled with warm spirits, love and support. The program is dedicated to the restoration of drug addicts, gang members, prostitutes and others in need of turning their life around. Leader's say it's not easy but well worth it.

CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KOSA story.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Reports From Lulwanda: November, 2010

Every month, Lulwanda Administrator Edward Mukiibi provides an update on Lulwanda Children's Home in Uganda – how the children are growing and learning, how the staff is developing, and any ongoing needs that may arise.

November, 2010

"Greetings from Lulwanda Children’s Home, this is the last report of the sixth year of operation. It has been amazing, challenging and inspiring how you have whole heartedly supported this ministry. We say thank you God and thank you all for supporting us and this ministry this far."

"Lulwanda has been blessed and in return we are making all the effort to ensure that the children God has given us are given the best of our lives, our time and resources so that they can be something extraordinary 10 years, 20 years from now."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukibi's November, 2010 report.

EPCAT-USA December Newsletter

ECPAT International is a global network of organisations and individuals working together for the elimination of child prostitution, child pornography and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes. It seeks to encourage the world community to ensure that children everywhere enjoy their fundamental rights free and secure from all forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

Few Are Guilty. All Are Responsible
Abraham Joshua Heschel

It is a simple premise to state: children should not be sold for sex. However, child prostitution and trafficking is a serious problem both abroad and even right here in the United States. At least a hundred thousand children are sexually exploited in the U.S. each year. Everything EPCAT-USA does is focused on stopping this terrible abuse of children.

In just the past year, we have:
Changed state law in Connecticut to protect children from being arrested when they are victims of sex trafficking. Now we are working to do the same in Minnessota, New Jersey and Vermont.
Provided medical care for sexually exploited children, including mental health counseling, tattoo removal and other items not services of Medicaid.
Supported the development of services for Haitian children trafficked to the Dominican Republic in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Promoted the Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism. A thousand companies around the world have signed the Code, but only one U.S. company. However, we expect two new large companies to sign the Code of Conduct imminently.

We need your help to keep these campaigns going strong. Hundreds of thousands of children are at risk for sex trafficking in the United States, and millions of children worldwide are exploited. Help us keep them safe by sending a check for $50 - or whatever you can afford - to EPCAT-USA. You can donate online through
www.epcatusa.org or send the check to EPCAT-USA, 157 Montague Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201.

Donations of 50$ or more, between now and January 5, 2011, receivea free "TASSATAG." This prestige luggage tag is big, bright and fair trade. It helps you find your luggage, and also makes you a visible supporter of the campaign against child sex tourism. Travelers Take Actions Against Sex Slavery and Trafficking www.tassatag.org

In the News ... "VAN donates building to Family Promise"

VAN donates building to Family Promise
By Kathleen Thurber
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Standing in the front yard of their new day center Tuesday, board members with Family Promise said it was God's timing that brought them a building just months before they plan to open.

"We feel very humble and very grateful," said the Rev. Gary Groves, board president.

The group gathered Tuesday at their future day center to thank the Vision Assistance Network's (VAN) board members and executive director, Vera Yeilding. VAN's board voted just before Thanksgiving to donate its Ohio Street facility to Family Promise after VAN had to shut its doors because of a lack of donations.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Monday, December 27, 2010

Christmas Editorial: Reflections on Christmas in China and Dr. Fan Yafeng

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Christmas Editorial: Reflections on Christmas in China and Dr. Fan Yafeng

Released by ChinaAid, December, 2010 ...

"MIDLAND TEXAS – As the Christmas season draws to a close in America, we at ChinaAid urge our freedom-loving friends and supporters to remember Dr. Fan, his wife Wu Lingling and their three-year-old little boy, prisoners in their own home in Beijing as they too celebrated Christmas. Though they celebrated the same birth of the same Savior as Christians in America, their holiday was an altogether different one. And although China has adopted many outward trappings of American affluence and lifestyle, to the extent that some visitors are fooled into thinking that China is becoming like America, the reality is that Chinese singers who have no idea whose birth they are singing about in 'O Little Town of Bethlehem' or 'O Holy Night' can present touching renditions of these well-loved carols in any four- or five-star hotel in Beijing or Shanghai, but Christians who do know the baby Jesus cannot gather for a Christmas service except at a government church without risk of being raided, cannot have more than a handful of people to their home to celebrate Christmas or it becomes an illegal gathering, and cannot follow Jesus’ example to champion the poor, the weak, and the oppressed without paying a heavy price."
Read the Rest of the Editorial from ChinaAid

Invitation to Prayer

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

"A Little Quiet"

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given … And he will be called … Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

"IThere! They’re at it again. ‘ark, the errol hygel sings’ … Boxing Day [December 26] is only two and a half weeks ahead; then perhaps we shall have a little quiet in which to remember the birth of Christ."
C.S. Lewis, God in the Dock, p. 310

"The Day on which the English give their gifts is Boxing Day, a public holiday that falls on the first weekday after Christmas. In the past, the English exchanged gifts among equals on Christmas Day, and gave gifts to those ‘socially inferior’ on the day after, probably wrapped in boxes; hence, the name ‘Boxing Day.’ It is also known in England as St. Stephen’s Day, named after the first Christian martyr."

"As a result, Lewis was not expecting the Prince of Peace to bring him peace until after Boxing Day, a day after Christmas Day itself, and after gifts had been given. While peace in the biblical sense men as far more than the absence of stress, Lewis was here thinking of the peace and quiet that a busy man, a famous and popular man, too seldom enjoyed."

"From the time of his BBC radio broadcasts in 1941, Lewis received many letters, probably a half-dozen to a dozen each day. As a result, he spent a lot of time answering those letters, and they seemed to come in greater numbers during the hristmas holidays. We don’t have to be famous to appreciate Lewis’ desire for a little quiet. In the midst of the busyness of the Advent season, we need to remember that God sent a child, a son, the Prince of Peace. He came to announce, ‘Peace on earth’ (Luke 2:14) for everyone who believes.”

Prince of Peace, give us peace of heart and mind, peace in the midst of busyness, and peace in the midst of quiet. Amen"
A Grand Miracle: Devotions for the Days of Advent based on thoughts of
C.S. Lewis
by Dr. Joel Heck


A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

On Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s Room at
First Presbyterian Church, Midland, I hope you will be able to join us for this time of prayer for the children of our world. We won’t have lunch that day as the church kitchen will still be closed (lunches will resume the following week).

Your prayers for children are much appreciated! If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children at risk, those who care for them, have authority over them, or, yes, even those who harm them, please send them to me at at
claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call. Thank you for your prayers for the children of our community and world.

Advent blessings,
Chris

In the News ... "Church withdraws welcome for support group"

Church withdraws welcome for support group
Robert Guaderrama
KOSA-TV

ODESSA, TEXAS - A one of a kind basin support group is looking for a new home after a local church has a change of heart because of what they stand for.

PFLAG or Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays recently started a chapter here in the basin. An Odessa church initially reached out to them but they just learned that they need to start looking for a new venue.

CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KOSA story.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

In the News ... "Salvation Army staff reflect on the season"

Salvation Army staff reflect on the season
By Audrie Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - "Merry Christmas. Do you want to ring the bell?" Wilma Hayes asked as she held the silver item out to the young girl in front of her. The child dropped her money in the red bucket and reached out to grab the shiny object.

Hayes was one of only seven Salvation Army bell ringers who remained at their posts Thursday, one day before the annual kettle campaign came to an end. She had served the whole holiday season, which began Nov. 15.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Advent Devotional for December 25

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community. We believe our 2010 Advent Devotional reflects the richness and depth of the theological education offered at Austin Seminary."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary


Advent Devotional for Saturday, December 25

Did you get what you wanted this year? After all, we all love presents! They look so enticing under the tree, all wrapped up and pretty, and we love imagining what’s probably inside. Then we open them; and I’m guessing that, for a lot of us, there is never more anticipation about the gift we get than in that very moment of unwrapping — right before the treasure is revealed.

It’s like this for the church, all during Advent, as — sitting around the tree — it handles with wonder and excitement the package waiting to be unwrapped at Christmas. Every year, it seems, we shake and weigh and smell it and ask a thousand questions about what’s inside.

Is it the world’s cutest little baby who never grows up? Is it an avenging warrior who will overcome evil once and for all? Is it a warm sentiment that will succeed this year in making me happy with my life just as it is? Is it a kindly but ineffective old saint who will take, without question or challenge, anything he might receive from me — my least - coin offerings or my tax-deductible charity or just any little thing I may be willing to give? Is it freedom from pain? Freedom from struggle? What’s inside the package that God has wrapped for God’s people?

Every Advent, we sneak up to the tree, shake the package, and wonder what’s inside.

And in the days and weeks that follow the Advent season of expectation, when the package has been opened to reveal Jesus, there’s a tendency to be disappointed in the gift, once the newness wears off. It’s not what we wanted, we say. Not what we thought we needed.

The question to ponder in that moment is this: Do we actually know what we need? Or is it possible that there’s Somebody Who knows what we need better than we?

Meanwhile, here’s old Simeon and Anna. Two old people, shuffling around the Temple, waiting to die. Simeon, righteous and devout, unable to see death before he has seen the Christ. And Anna, constantly in prayer and fasting night and day. Here’s what’s so special about them: What they most want and what they most need meet happily in Jesus, and then they’re ready to die. They know this child won’t take away the pain of moral struggle. They know that, just because the Messiah is here, the rest of us are not somehow off the hook for living faithfully. In fact, Simeon tells Mary a disturbing thing, and hopes that the rest of us will overhear his words: “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel … and a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

No illusions, for Simeon and Anna, about what’s involved in following this child! And yet they still embrace him as the redemption of Jerusalem, and they are ready to die. How marvelous it must be when what you want and what you need can be delivered — all in one gift!

Did we get what we wanted this year, in this gift from God? Maybe not. Probably not. What we needed, perhaps, but not so much what we wanted. But for God’s sake, for the world’s sake, let’s try to keep the gift.

Thank you for the gift, God. You fooled us with the wrapping — the straw, the donkey, the peasant exterior, the challenges, the willingness to turn things upside down. We didn’t expect you to come in such a way. Honestly, it’s not what we wanted. But we believe it’s what we needed — even if we don’t always know what to do with it. So help us keep the gift of your Son—even when he embarrasses us, or demands great things from us, or is just plain different. Even when it takes more strength than we think we have, help us accept your gift. Thank you again, God, for the gift. Amen.

Theodore J. Wardlaw
President of Austin Seminary



For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Word from West Texas: "A Christmas Song"

In August, 2008, John P. Van Dusen and his wife moved from Fort Collins, Colorado, to West Texas, to help build The Bridge,a contemporary worship service in a new space in a traditional Protestant church.

A Christmas Song

John writes, "A hoary frost clings to the inside of the window, muscling it's way in - unwanted, unwelcome - but altogether familiar. Mixing with the summer's untouched dust, it over ripens into winter's dirty complaint. A box below holds the reminders of Autumn: bats and baseballs, footballs, and tetherballs with frayed ropes. Faded red rubber kick balls, deflated by the cold, sit quietly like old pumpkins. The winter sun is a primeval bachelor today that illuminates without warmth, casting shadows so puny as to be chased away by a warm smile."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of John's post at Into the West Texas Sun

Sounds of Christmas at MC
Pt. 6 - "Carol of the Bells"

In the News ... "Salvation Army brings holiday cheer"

Salvation Army brings holiday cheer
Gabriella Lopez
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - While the holidays can be difficult for people struggling financially, Santa Claus came to town for some Odessa families thanks to the Salvation Army.

After completing this year’s Empty Stocking Fund and Angel Tree, Salvation Army employees distributed gifts and food to 300 families and 900 children Wednesday, Lt. Stephen Correira, the Corps officer for the Salvation Army, said.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.
CLICK HERE to see a photo slideshow related to this story.

Advent Devotional for December 24

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community. We believe our 2010 Advent Devotional reflects the richness and depth of the theological education offered at Austin Seminary."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary


Advent Devotional for Friday, December 24

Love changes the way we see. Parents who welcome a child into their arms for the first time proclaim, “Isn’t she the most precious baby ever!” Long-time friends experience one another as the very epitome of trustworthiness. Couples, decades into their marriage, say to one another, “You are the most beautiful person in the world.”

People make these kinds of bold statements all the time, acclamations borne out of love. Are they truth statements? The most precious baby ever? Most trustworthy friend? Most beautiful person in the world? Surely other babies out there cry less and are less colicky. There are undoubtedly other friendships that, through trust, change the course of history. And, more beautiful faces than the wrinkled visage of an aged spouse surely are plenteous …

Here, in this very passage, John tells us that all those who abide in love abide in God, and God in them. That bold statement is the one that bears truth into all those other bold statements. Those who love see others as God sees them: faces of beauty, including their wrinkles; faithful friends, including their inadequacies; precious children, including their aggravating habits. Those who love participate in God’s love — a love that changes our vision, a love that always was possible because God first loved us in Jesus Christ.

Here, at the end of Advent, we celebrate the gift of love that makes a new way of seeing possible: God’s love in and through Christ that considers every face to be the most beautiful in the entire world. Impossible, you say? Not for the loving God who abides in us.

Holy God, in Jesus Christ you have shown us the true face of beauty, borne of your love for the world. Increase your love in and through us so that we might begin to see all of your creation, and your creatures, as you do. Amen.

David Jensen
Interim Academic Dean and Professor of Constructive Theology



For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Faces of Children: Prayer Requests

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

Prayer Concerns for the week of 12/22/10

Europe
Give God thanks and praise for the strong movement of the gospel in Europe among Roma, or Gypsies, an ethnic minority that has faced discrimination and suspicion for centuries Thanks be to God that thousands and thousands of Roma throughout Europe are able to find joy in their faith despite the prejudice they have faced through the centuries. Pray that this Christian movement will continue to gain strength and spread continent-wide. Pray for Roma children who do not know about the powerful love of Jesus Christ yet.
A report from Christianity Today


Haiti
Please continue to keep the children and people of Haiti held close in prayer as the cholera epidemic spreads faster than first expected. The highly contagious disease is now present in all of Haiti’s ten provinces and has killed more than 1,300 people in less than two months.
Pray for healing for those who are ill and lack proper medical care or treatment. Pray for those who are fearful and angry and don’t want treatment centers in their neighborhoods. Please pray that enough treatment centers can be established and that people would not be afraid.
Pray that this cholera epidemic won’t last for more than a year like UN experts believe it might. Pray that it will run its course quickly and disappear.
A report from alertnet.org

Somalia
Please keep in prayer the families of two girls who were executed by al-Shabaab, Somalia’s powerful Islamist insurgents that reportedly have links to al-Qaeda and embrace a rigid form of Islamic Sharia law. The 18-year-old and 14-year-old girls were trying to escape the violence in Somalia and ended up caught in the middle of a battle between al-Shabaab and government forces. Al-Shabaab captured the girls and claimed they were spies for the Ethiopian government.
Pray for the residents of the town in which these girls were killed by firing squad—al-Shabaab forced all residents to witness the execution.
Wikipedia Entry: Al-Shabaab
Pray for others who are still held in custody by this insurgent group. Pray for an end to the kind of violence that is done in the name of religion.
A report from the New York Times
Pray for the safety of the children and wife of a member of an underground Christian movement in Somalia who was murdered by al-Shabaab militants. Last July, this Christian man was shot to death in front of his wife and children by al-Shabaab insurgents who then kidnapped all four children.
Pray for 5-year-old Ali, 7-year-old Fatuma, 10-year-old Sharif, and 15-year-old Nur who were taken to be trained as soldiers.
A report from compassdirect.org
Pray for all Christians in this country who risk death because of their faith, and especially those who have converted from Islam to Christianity.

United States
Please pray for five children who were hidden from the world by their parents in a squalid house without heat, electricity, or running water. Give thanks to God that these children, three girls and two boys ranging in age from about 2 to 13 years old, were found and removed from this situation. None of the children have birth certificates and they hadn’t been enrolled in school or given medical care, including immunizations.
Pray for the foster parents and families in which these children have been placed. Pray for patience and understanding as they help the children with health, vision, mental health, and educational issues.
Please pray that God will surround these frightened and confused children with a loving community that can help them as they adjust to being in society after only experiencing isolation.
Pray for the parents of these children as they deal with the consequences of their actions.
A report from the Aberdeen American News

Faces of Children
Please keep Faces of Children prayer partner Amy King and her new husband Brad held close in prayer as they mourn the death of Brad’s mother.
Please continue to pray that more churches and individuals will join with the ministry of Faces of Children in spreading awareness about children in crisis and inviting more people to pray for children at risk.

Sounds of Christmas at MC
Pt. 5 - "Glory to God In the Highest"

In the News ... "Christmas meals delivered to homebound residents"

Christmas meals delivered to homebound residents
By Tony Waggoner
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Meals on Wheels took to the road this week to deliver more than 500 Christmas meals to residents in Midland.

The 520 meals delivered Wednesday meant everyone in the program was provided a Christmas meal, Community & Senior Services Development Director Kobi Nix said.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Advent Devotional for December 23

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community. We believe our 2010 Advent Devotional reflects the richness and depth of the theological education offered at Austin Seminary."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary


Advent Devotional for Thursday, December 23

I don’t get Obadiah. After Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians, Obadiah railed against neighboring Edom for not getting involved. Had he actually expected Edom to act at no benefit to themselves, out of brotherhood traced back many generations, against the onslaught of the most powerful enemy ever seen in their lifetime? The historical alliance between Obadiah’s people and the Edomites had been shaky at best. Did Obadiah expect that Edom would mourn over Jerusalem’s destruction? Treasures had been left unguarded after the raid, there for the taking. Did Obadiah expect Edom to just leave them alone? The Edomites were just doing what normal people do, acting in their own interest. Did Obadiah expect otherwise? And did he expect God to render judgment against them for doing so? Sure, it’s wonderful when we all love and sacrifice for each other, but should that be an expectation?

What if we were less like Elijah—who whined, “I am the only one left!” — and more like Obadiah, who trusted God’s people so much that he was righteously indignant when they abandoned him? What if we practiced, even for just a little while, expecting love and sacrifice from those who call themselves our brothers and sisters and servants of the same Lord? What if we dared to hold them accountable, just as we submit ourselves accountable to them? And what if we prayed and hoped and worshipped as if we really believed God to be what we say—Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, and Lord? What if we climbed over the rubble of disappointment and cynicism of the “holiday season,” just as Obadiah climbed over the destruction of Jerusalem, and we took expectation seriously in this season of expectation?

Source of all we treasure, embodiment of all we adore, breath of all that inspires us, we name you with many names, but we so often forget who you are. Restore our trust, we pray. Restore us so that we may truly reflect your light in the world. Amen.

Stella Burkhalter (MDiv’10)
Associate Pastor, Covenant United Methodist Church, Austin, Texas



For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Teichert Prayer Letter for December

Karl and Jenny Teichert are serving the Lord as missionaries with OC Africa, in South Africa. They moved to Johannesburg in November, 1997 with their four children; Ann, Scott, Stephen and John. Karl serves as the Southern Africa Director of the Southern Africa Regional Team. Their vision is to see a healthy, Bible-based church established in every un-reached village and community in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and beyond. Their strategy is to partner with key African church leaders to research, train, and mobilize the body of Christ to complete the Great Commission. They are striving to equip local leaders in Southern Africa to reach their nations for Christ and send missionaries into other countries as well. Karl’s ministry focuses on research, church planting, and leadership development training. In addition to caring for their four children, Jenny enjoys ministering through hospitality and equipping Sunday school teachers

December Prayer Letter, ...

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11

Dear Family and Friends,

May you experience great joy that comes from the good news that is available for all people through our Lord Jesus Christ this season and coming new year.

Thank you for your constant prayers and generous financial support for us this year. We are so grateful for your dear friendship and partnership in bringing the good news of Christ to the people of Southern Africa.

With Great Joy,
Karl, Jenny, Ann, Scott, Stephen, and John

OC Africa is an interdenominational ministry committed to developing, equipping, and mobilizing church leaders to multiply healthy, Bible-based churches in every community in Southern Africa and the world. OC is a faith-based mission who depends on the Lord to provide committed, financial supporters and partners. The contributions from these individuals help generate ministry opportunities around the world, impact missionaries and their global work, and provide a means for the International Mobilization Center to function. CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can be a part of mobilizing church leaders around the world by donating to OC.

Sounds of Christmas at MC
Pt. 4 - "Kings of Swing"

In the News ... "Christmas Doors Spark Curiosity"

Christmas Doors Spark Curiosity
Jennifer Samp
KOSA-TV

ODESSA, TEXAS - You may have seen them in your neighborhood, and wondered what they are.

They are Christmas doors.

A local church is using the power of curiosity, as a door of opportunity, leading west Texans to a website called christmasdoor.org

CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KOSA story.

Advent Devotional for December 22

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community. We believe our 2010 Advent Devotional reflects the richness and depth of the theological education offered at Austin Seminary."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary


Advent Devotional for Wednesday, December 22

So there we were, out in the middle of the lake, and we
were all hungry, but whoever was supposed to bring the lunch had forgotten it. Then Jesus started going on about the bread of the Pharisees. Well, we knew what he meant — he was talking about their teaching. He just couldn’t let go of that. There wasn’t a Pharisee within miles, but if one had rowed up right then and handed me a sandwich, I would have taken it. Then Jesus started calling us blind and deaf, and started talking about the miracles he had performed. Okay, fine. But he didn’t seem to be about to perform another one, so all we could do was sit there and wait until we got to shore.

We landed and walked into town, and there was the usual blind guy waiting for him. Just like always, Jesus decided it couldn’t wait until after lunch, so he grabbed him and led him back the way he had come, motioning for us to follow.

When we got out of town a little bit, Jesus spat on the guy’s eyes and touched them, and asked him what he saw. “Looks like trees walking around,” the guy said. So Jesus did it again, and the guy could see.

That was weird. It didn’t usually take Jesus two tries. It made me wonder. There are lots of things I don’t get. Jesus called us blind, and maybe we are, in a way. He can be maddening, sometimes, but maybe a little more time with him and things will come clearer. I watch the guy who used to be blind run down the road, and wonder what he sees, and think about how many times it might take for Jesus to heal me.

Lord, you alone know how much we need to be healed, and how long it will take. Be patient with us, we pray, and teach us to be patient with ourselves. Stay with us until we see face-to-face, even if it takes a lifetime. Amen.

David W. Johnson
Director of Ministerial Formation



For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Invitation to Prayer

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

"Hushed Excitement"

My eyes have seen your salvation.
Luke 2:30

"I have read {your book} Treasure on Earth and I don’t believe you have any notion how good it is…I’ve never seen the hushed internal excitement of a child on Christmas Eve better done. That is something we can all recognize."
C.S. Lewis, Lewis’ Collected Letters, III, p. 261

"Christmas is especially for children, whether young children, old children, or very old children. Simeon is an example of the third category. We’ll come back to him later."

"In a letter written to Phyllis Sandeman during Advent, Lewis comments favorably about a book that she had written that year, Treasure on Earth. Subtitled A Country House Christmas, it tells of the approach of Christmas Day in an Elizabethan mansion in northern England in 1906. An excited child, the 10-year-old author herself, awaits Christmas morning, the gifts and all the festivities that would come with the day."

"There was not long to wait now before the drama would begin—the curtain was trembling to its rise. The twilight of the early winter morning, the piercing sweetness of the voices rising in the still air, the tune and the words she loved so well, ‘Christians, awake, salute the happy morn!’ Then heaven would open."

"Simeon had been waiting for the Savior for a long time. God had told him that he would see the Christ, the promised Messiah, before he died. When the moment arrived, Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God, probably with a ‘hushed internal excitement.’ His eyes were full of anticipation, as he saw the salvation of Israel in his arms. He amazed Mary and Joseph by predicting the future of this child. We, who know him, know that these predictions came true."

"Lord Jesus, give us a hushed excitement at your coming, at your presence, and make it truly internal."
A Grand Miracle: Devotions for the Days of Advent based on thoughts of
C.S. Lewis
by Dr. Joel Heck


A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

The Midland Faces of Children prayer group will meet Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s room at
First Presbyterian Church, Midland to pray for the children. Please join us for this time of prayer. We will not have lunch that day as the church kitchen will be closed.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children at risk, those who care for them, have authority over them, or, yes, even those who harm them, please send them to me at at
claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call. Thank you for your prayers for the children of our community and world.

Advent blessings,
Chris

Sounds of Christmas at Midland College
Pt. 3 - "Dona Nobis Pacem"

Advent Devotional for December 21

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community. We believe our 2010 Advent Devotional reflects the richness and depth of the theological education offered at Austin Seminary."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary


Advent Devotional for Tuesday, December 21

Conflict resolution ... our text shows that the Christian household is not exempt from the need for it. Apparently, “Euodia” and “Syntyche” (perhaps two church leaders in Philippi) were at odds with one another and needing to relearn the civility of respectful discourse; to see afresh “the common understanding in the Lord” that is the lifeblood of the household of faith. Sound familiar?

These two names deserve a second look; after all, the names we bear often “mean” something. Onesimus (in Philemon 10) means “useful,” an appropriate name for all householders of faith because of the importance of that conduct in the Kingdom of God. Eutychos (in Acts 20:9) means “fortunate/blessed,” because God’s hand of deliverance prompts thanksgiving, apart from deeds of merit.

Similarly, Euodia connotes “good behavior” while Syntyche connotes “being fortunate.” The competing interests in these two names describe well two views of the Christian life: the inner life we call spirituality and the outward orientation of social action. Recall the struggle of Mary and Martha in Luke 10: adoration and piety and staying busy in the kitchen of practical service!

Then we turn to the mysterious one Paul addresses in Philippi: Syzyge, “genuinely yoked-together One.” The name and the request made of this person blend words that share the language of birthing and intercessory prayer. And all these features create a refined theological image of … who? Can it be any other than the Lord, of v. 1, who in this season in response to our intercessions, yokes us together — in our flawed interest in responsible conduct and in our ineffectual gratitude for undeserved blessing? If so, this One’s yoking presence spawns good reasons for Advent celebration! Amen!

Lord, with whom we are yoked because you tethered our destiny to your Lordship, we offer ourselves to you, in all our flaws of conduct and ineffectual gratitude. We seek assurance and hope for the resolution of our conflicts in the way you constitute the household of our habitation, your church. Amen.

John E. AlsupThe First Presbyterian Church, Shreveport, D. Thomason Professor of New Testament Studies



For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Midland Group Notes Vastly Different Accounts of Bishop’s Ordination from China, Overseas

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Midland Group Notes Vastly Different Accounts of Bishop’s Ordination from China, Overseas

Released by ChinaAid, December, 2010 ...

"MIDLAND, TEXAS – News reports from the official Chinese media and from overseas accounts about a recent Catholic bishop’s ordination highlighted the long-standing dispute over who has authority over the Catholic church in China."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Sounds of Christmas at Midland College
Pt. 2 - "Holiday Favorites"

In the News ... "Christ Church-Midland looks to expand Native American mission"

Christ Church-Midland looks to expand Native American mission
By Megan Lea Buck
Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - White Shield, N.D., is home to the Arikara people — a group of Native Americans who lived on the Great Plains for hundreds of years before moving to the Fort Berthold Reservation.

Tom Talbot, youth minister at Christ Church Midland, became involved in Native American ministry 21 years ago. In 2000, eight years before he started at Christ Church, Talbot began working with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in White Shield.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Advent Devotional for December 20

"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community. We believe our 2010 Advent Devotional reflects the richness and depth of the theological education offered at Austin Seminary."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary


Advent Devotional for Monday, December 20

Hear this, you foolish and senseless people, who have eyes but do not see, who have ears but do not hear … Should I not punish them for this? declares the LORD.”

Why look to this text during Advent? It seems an extreme contrast to sights and sounds of the season. Jeremiah (for classic rock fans) obviously was not a bullfrog, but he was a good friend … of Judah. Jeremiah, God’s reluctant prophet, delivered messages of punishment and destruction for Judah’s sins, a warning of the invading nation from the north. His words are less than hopeful. But isn’t the season of Advent about the hope, joy, and peace that comes to us in Christ?

The truth of the old covenant was spoken, though not heard or accepted. People of Judah/Israel did not fear God or follow God’s commandments. Unfaithfulness ruled in their hearts, but God was patient as Jeremiah prophesied for forty years. Jerusalem fell, but God did not bring complete destruction to God’s people.

We might have more in common with the house of Israel than we like to admit. God calls us to see more clearly and listen more intently to the grace and beauty of God’s bounty. As God orders creation, sets the sand as bounds for the sea, showers rain in seasons due, God provides our deepest need. The good news is found in the new covenant, which we remember this Advent season: the gift of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Jeremiah’s message has more to do with this season than I initially thought. God’s power and grace abound through all time. In light of the old ways, we can move toward the grace and mercy God offers us today ... joy to you and me! As I face invading Babylonians, I thank God for the new covenant in Christ.

O Holy One of Israel, open our eyes to see your light and tune our ears to hear your truth. You, who calls us from darkness and destruction, turn us toward your grace and mercy, so that we might live fully in your bounty that is Christ Jesus. Amen.

Amber Reber
Dual Degree (MDiv/MSSW) senior student from Austin, Texas



For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Last-Minute Christmas Gift Suggestions
Pt. 3 "The Simple Grain"

Steve and Oddny Gumaer started Partners Relief & Development in response to the needs of refugees and displaced people from Burma. "Our Vision: Free, full lives for the children of Burma. Our Hope: Reconciled communities living in peace. Through holistic action, we demonstrate God’s love to children and communities made vulnerable by war in Burma.
We all have our own wish lists for Christmas. You may want a new iPod or some new boots. I want a hand-knitted sweater from my wife. But imagine for a moment if your top gift was food. That is the case for thousands of people in Burma right now. Will you join Partners Relief & Development and make this Christmas about giving life to war-impacted children and families? When you purchase one of our gifts, you are literally helping save lives. You also show God's love.

Here's how it works ...
1. To review the options and purchase gifts, click the Buy Now button. You will be taken to a Partners web page where you can select your specific gifts. You can choose as many gifts as you'd like.
2. Check out and purchase your gifts. Your order will be sent to Partners immediately.
3. Partners will mail you a Greeting Card for each item you select. You can then give the Greeting Cards to your loved ones at that perfect moment.

It's so easy to do ... ... here's one suggestion ...

Three / The Simple Grain - In times of crisis or attack, Partners Relief & Development provides basic essentials such as food, clothing, water, medicine, emergency medical assistance and shelter. These are short-term solutions to an immediate need. A gift of rice provides a family of five with the food they need to survive for two weeks when displaced from their homes or when running from the Burma Army.